Sand vs. gravel

Pool filter sand es numero uno. I use it in all my tanks, because it's cheap, easy to work with, and looks pretty nice. I buy mine for about 5 dollars per 50lbs bag at my local pool supply store, I've spent about $30 total to put 2-3" of sand in a 125, 55, and 37.

Record my vote for sand as well (as compared to gravel).

I find sand to be more aesthetically pleasing than gravel, particularly if it's a natural color, though I do have an appreciation for black sand and the way it accentuates the colors of some fish.

I also think that sand works better for keeping things tidy while also keeping rooted plants healthy. Very tiny particles of detritus and silt lodge down into the sand and provide nutrition for plant roots, but the bigger particles of waste tend to stay on top of the sand where it can be siphoned out of the tank easily. On the other hand, when you siphon gravel, you end up pulling out the big, nasty chunks of gunk as well as the fine particulate matter that would otherwise provide food for rooted plants.

The only downside to sand (versus gravel) is that I have to take a little extra care during water changes so that I minimize how much I disturb the substrate when adding water. If I pour water into the tank too fast, it will blow a depression into the sand and stir up the silt and/or cause sand particles to get into the filter.

I think it depends on the setup, my 10 gallon that has a natural look to it is much better looking with medium rocks and gravel. My 20 gallon has sand and my crayfish likes to dig in it.


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I actually like the looks of gravel much better than sand. I have no reason why, it's just what I like
I don't know if one is better than the other. It's just looks for me lol. Although I do like the black sand look. Which is why I have it in one of my tanks. But I'm moving everything over to my bigger tank and I don't think I'll transfer the sand with it.

I prefer gravel as well. IMO it's easier to work with as far as cleaning and staying out of the filter. Estes offers some real nice looking natural blends or differing sizes, which is my favorite. I don't like the man made, artificially colored stuff. I had some of that in my first 55, real pretty blue...it removed ALL the barbels from my corys!! If you go gravel, go with natural, smooth blends, looks good and fish friendly.

IMO it's personal preference...yes, there are subtle differences for both substrates, but it a lot of it is aesthetics.

I prefer sand for all of my tanks except the ones I keep Darters in. The quantity (LOTS!!!) and quality (linear flow) of water flow move it around too much.

Sand because it's easier to clean. But +1 to jpappy...it is what you personally prefer.